1.27.2014

Be committed, not offended!

Endure and Be Lifted Up
"The Lord can readily discern between those with superficial signs of activity and those who are deeply rooted in His Church. This Jesus taught in the parable of the sower. He observed that some “have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word’s sake, immediately they are offended.”
Loyalty to the Lord carries an obligation of loyalty to those called by the Lord to lead His Church. He has empowered that men be ordained to speak in His holy name. As they guide His unsinkable boat safely toward the shore of salvation, we would do well to stay on board with them. “No waters can swallow the ship where lies / The Master of ocean and earth and skies.”
Nevertheless, some individuals want to jump “out of the boat” before reaching land. And others, sadly, are persuaded out by companions who insist that they know more about life’s perilous journey than do prophets of the Lord. Problems often arise that are not of your own making. Some of you may innocently find yourselves abandoned by one you trusted. But you will never be forsaken by your Redeemer, who said, “I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say.”

Trying to Serve the Lord Without Offending the Devil
"It is not good practice to become intrigued by Satan and his mysteries. No good can come from getting too close to evil. Like playing with fire, it is too easy to get burned: “The knowledge of sin tempteth to its commission” (see Joseph F. Smith, GD, p. 373). The only safe course is to keep well distanced from him and from any of his wicked activities or nefarious practices. The mischief of devil worship, sorcery, casting spells, witchcraft, voodooism, black magic, and all other forms of demonism should be avoided like the plague."

Becoming Offended - Beware of Satan's Trap!
"As love is a choice, so is becoming offended. No one has to become offended by another.  God has given His children a weapon to beat Satan at his strategy... More people stop going to local church fellowships over this very issue than any other.  In one way or another, they have allowed themselves to become offended."

What more can I tell you about it? Need I say more?
As men we are all imperfect so I will question all things which a man shall tell me. I will ask God for the Lord IS perfect and he can discern for me as is appropriate and show me what the truth is.
When in doubt, pray it out.

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